Engine overheats when idling/slow traffic for longer than 30 minutes

[michaelp]

Radiator Thermofans fail to start (since new) when idling or in traffic snarls. Car overtemp warning lamp and alarm will sound so that part is working.

Service unable to sort problem.

As soon as there is sustained forward motion the gauge quickly drops back to operating temperature even on the hottest days (mid 40s Celcius).

Any advice?

Edited 13 February, 2012 by michaelp

[Tankdave]

Get it back to he dealer asap, you risk damaging the engine for a start. This should be simple to fix as the fault is easy to replicate, the fans are not switching on!!!! Surely the dealer can "fault" this? perhaps you need another mechanic to look at it?

[Alfaspider]

You are welcome to move to Europe. No overheating here these days.

If not a solution, then you may have air pocket in radiator near sensor which should engage fans or broken sensors on radiator itself. Are you a DIY person?

[michaelp]

Thanks people for the logical advice. Have a service due so will add it to the list (again).

I've had the over temp alarm go off twice in 60,000km and the temp gauge rise above normal half a dozen times.

In all instances an immediate and sustained forward motion quickly brought the temp back to normal range.

[bill2]

sounds like low water to me have you checked the level in the header tank.

bill